About Michael N.

Boom boom rakaka, boom. Djembe was my favorite instrument in high school. Still play it with choirs and with friends. Again, let's jam.

Other hand drums are applicable here.

About Michael

No need to be nervous before my lessons. I have taught lessons to ages 6 to students in their 70's! My lessons have a comfortable atmosphere where students can be okay learning with mistakes; through trial and error. I always keep a light mood with quick bits of humor. I teach in a relaxing way, but at the same time you may expect to leave with new musical knowledge every lesson. I enjoy showing the connections between music and other areas of study and life. I always finds ways to work a student's personal interests into lessons. I always strive to help students learn how to practice in an efficient and organized way.

I am a published composer and active performer/teacher/conductor with a Bachelor's Degree in Music Education and a Master's Degree in Conducting!

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Reviews

D'Astou B. September 4, 2016·Singing·In studio

Exceeded all my expectations! My sister really appreciated and learned a lot and I can already see a positive change in her singing confidence.

Nicole R. August 8, 2016·Singing·In home

My 10 year old daughter was very nervous but Mike did a good job of getting her past it. Gave a lot of positive feedback!

Drew F. June 24, 2016·Trumpet·In studio

Mike was very knowledgable and friendly! He was very encouraging and helped me overcome my doubts. If you're on the fence about taking lessons from him, definitely do it - you won't regret it!

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Michael N.

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Michael N.

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About Peter Q.

I have a Djembe from Ghana! Carved from one piece of African Hardwood. It is one of my favorite instruments!

About Peter

I'm a multi-instrumentalist from the Northwest with lots of love for teaching people to groove. I got my bachelor's degree in music from Whitman College with an emphasis in Jazz Performance. I can teach anyone to rock, swing or get unreasonably funky. Lessons can be casual or serious and I'm down to tell you how to get to Carnegie Hall or onto the stage at the local jam.

*** Lesson Details ***I like to teach my students what they want to learn! I'm always game for setting up a fun path to being able to play your favorite songs as fast as possible. I don't scold or shame and having a blast is the name of my game. I can teach you to improvise, read music, become a strummer or virtuoso, it's all up to you.

*** Travel Equipment ***I can travel with a sax, flute, guitar, electric bass, and a didgeridoo....

*** Specialties ***I'm a jazz musician! But I listen to and perform all styles of music. I have written string quartets, been the front man for a funk band, and recorded every style of music under the sun. I can teach Bach and the Beatles and explain how/ and why they intersect and are similar musically.

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Reviews

Debbie P. January 10, 2018·Classical Piano·In home

Perfect. He matched his lesson beautifully with the music I like and how I am likely to learn quickly. Could not ask for better.

Peter Q.

Peter Q.

About Murray P.

In these lessons our focus is mainly on hand drumming, teaching the student techniques and styles for various styles of hand drums from around the world.

There are many aspects of djembe playing including strength and co-ordination that only can be improve in our lessons. This is why my djembe lessons will be fun and can be of a great help.

About Murray

I received my B.S. & Music Degree with concentration in instrumentalists from Morgan State University. I have been playing since the age of three years old and have been teaching since 2004. In 2016, I was accepted as a member of the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM). I am very well rounded in all styles of music such as, Rock, Jazz, Gospel, Christian, Latin, Marching, Classical, Blues and the list goes on. I am a Emmy Nominated drummer for my outstanding role in the 2015 Stage Musical "Oh Gospel" The Evolution of Gospel Music. My drumming & percussion career has launch me into one of the most sought after instructors & drummers of our time. My skill level and personalty has brought about major partnerships with some of the biggest names in the industry such as Vic Furth, Evans Drum Heads, Sabian Cymbals, JamTec USA, Urbann

Boards and Kick Strap. I have performed with many Stellers & Grammy artist such as Richard Smallwood, Tamela Mann, Marvin Sapp, Dorinda Clark Cole, Isaiah D Thomas, American Idol contestants and Sunday Best contestants just to name a few. I currently play full time at the New Antioch Baptist Church of Randallstown in Baltimore MD where the congregation is over 10,000 members. I am very proud of the releasing of my latest DVD entitle "Piper's Time 2 Groove" & "Nothing Too Hard" video to inspire all musicians around the World. With the launching of Passionate Drumming & Music Lessons, I am dedicated to equipping all my students with the instructions for reaching students goals. I welcome all students any age, any skill level. Hope to have you as a new student very soon!

*** Lesson Details ***My students will quickly learn the basics of drumming, including: stick control, technique, rhythms, drum fills, and licks. It does not matter if you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced drummer. The same time and effort will be exercised. We will have a fun and meaningful time playing, both by ear and by reading music. These lessons will really be hands on using teaching methods such as music books, DVD’s, and playing of my own. Students will have a great time also studying music theory, learning how to assemble the drum set, learning the parts of the drums, how to tune the drums, and how to accompany other musical instruments. After 3 to 6 months taking lessons, all students will be well on their way to a very successful musical career having had such fun and learning to play all different styles of music. My motto: Lets play Good, get Better, and be our Best!

Reviews

Kelsey February 10, 2018·Drum·Online

Murray is the best instructor I have had. He is super supportive, really nice, and a lot of fun. I really enjoy my lessons with him and I am learning a lot more about drumming from him than the other instructors I have had.

SledgePad Innovations January 18, 2018··

Murray Piper has been an Artist with SledgePad Innovations for over a year now and we would highly recommend him as a teacher, mentor and artist of his instrument. It is an honor to have such talent part of our company. Thank you for all that you do.

Doug January 18, 2018·Drum·In studio

Absolutely fantastic teacher - he was patient, knowledgeable, and very skilled at conveying the principles of drumming in an understandable manner for someone like me, a beginner. He also makes the lessons fun, which is the whole point of doing it!

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Murray P.

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Murray P.

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$30
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About Jesse M.

Learn about keeping basic time as well as how to generate good tone on the djembe.

About Jesse

*Disclaimer*I'm currently not taking beginner students on guitar, bass, drums, piano, or ukulele. I highly recommend my studio partners Andrew and Melissa though. Please check out their profiles for the following topics:

I've been playing with classical ensembles and rock bands since 2001. Even though I started on classical trombone and rock guitar, I have come to expand my repertoire to a variety of instruments and genres. During my time in college I performed with the University choir, orchestra, and band. I also have organized, wrote/arranged for, and performed with a variety of bands in my home state of New Mexico, as well as Japan, and the San Francisco Bay Ar

ea.

Since 2006 I have been an active teacher. This profession has taken me everywhere from working with classical guitar classes in New Mexico high schools to Elementary students in Japan to a variety of private students of various musical instruments and genres everywhere I've been. Since relocating to the Bay Area in 2010, I've had the pleasure of working with lots of great students from kids to adults with a wide range of ambitions. Since 2012 I've been running my own full time studio.

Philosophy of Learning

Lessons are generally designed to work towards giving students the tools to accomplish their goals and become increasingly independent over time. While all students will study similar fundamentals regarding technique, theory, and performance, every lesson is as different as every person. What kind of music do you want to make? I'll tell you what you need to do to get there, and help you take the steps to achieve your aspirations.

I also love to help students put together a song, record, and produce it for them so that they can have a recording to share with their friends and family.

I also hold events for my students. (Check out our pictures and videos below!)Younger students have opportunities to perform for friends and family at my studio every few months. Once or twice a year we'll also stage a larger event off site for more individual students and bands classes to perform.Adult students also occasionally have events where they get a chance to get together and play music as well.

Aside from in-studio lessons, students also have the option to sign up for online lessons via Skype.(*Online lessons offered during different times than in-studio lessons.)

*Unfortunately due to scheduling issues, I'm not currently accepting students for bi-weekly lessons. I can do regular weekly lessons, or occasional drop-in lessons, but bi-weekly appointments make it really hard for me to give the best scheduled times to my existing weekly students. I'm sorry for the inconvenience.

My studio is equipped with:

*Music Stands

*A P.A. System

*Vocal and instrument microphones

*Guitars, Basses, Ukulele, Banjos, etc

*Two guitar amps and a bass amp

*Various percussion including a fully equipped acoustic drum set

*A Roland V-Drums electronic drum set

*An electric piano console and Yamaha organ

*A MicroKorg Synthesizer

*A Tuba, Trombone, Cornet, Saxophone, and Flute

*An extensive physical and virtual music library

*A recording system that students are not only welcome to use but encouraged to

Reviews

This was my son's first lesson, and he is looking forward to playing his trumpet and coming back for more lessons. I was hoping to spark his interest in music and so far so good.

Robert O. August 10, 2017·Japanese·Online

Rajeev July 18, 2017·Trumpet·In studio

After a break of more than a year I wanted to restart my Trumpet lessons. I chose Jesse based on the reviews and Jesse did not disappoint. He is very patient and focused teacher. I liked his structured method and tools he uses. I was able to get back in groove in no time.

Highly recommended.

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Jesse M.

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Jesse M.

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starting at

$50
/ 30-min

About Karen D.

Djembe:A rope-tuned skin-covered goblet drum played with bare hands, originally from West Africa. Starting with basics of learning hand techniques, rhythms, tuning, and bass, tone, and slap, which have low, medium, and high pitch, to play along with songs.

About Karen

Anyone Can Learn To Sing or Play Any Instrument With My Method!No End To How Good You Can Get!Become Better Than Anyone Out There!Vocal Therapist-Can Cure ALL Vocal Damage!

Karen D.-Certified Teacher of the World Famous Dante Pavone Vocal Method-Honor Graduate of Berklee School of Music!-Winner of International World Contest for Meridan Records from over 300 Countries -Runner up in Ticketmaster Contest-Twenty Original Songs Placed in Movies-Written and Recorded Hundreds of Original Songs-Performer, Producer, Actress, Poet, Writer, Dancer, Entrepreneur-Teaches Song Writing, Ear Training, Theory, Arranging-Teaches Video Production and Editing-Teaches Audio Engineering

It is completely untrue that some people are "born to sing or play an instrument" while others are not. Using my method, the most "tone de

af" can learn to sing perfectly in tune, the most nasal or unappealing sound can be transformed into the most beautiful resonant tone, and someone with "no talent" can become better than anyone out there. With this superb method when you finish singing your voice will feel better than when you started! All it takes is desire, patience, perseverance, and above all, practice. I also have a unique and very patient teaching style that can make learning any instrument seem easy. Anyone can learn with my method of teaching.

It all started out in a small town called Chatham, NJ where I spent the first thirteen years of my life. I remember loving music as early as I could walk and talk. I started taking guitar lessons when I was seven years old. Along with the guitar, came a love for singing and writing my own songs. When we moved to Pennsylvania the guitar came with me. Throughout my high school years, I spent hours playing with teachers, fellow students and at parties.

When I was sixteen every week for three years I would drive an hour into Philadelphia, by myself, to study with world famous Artie Singer. His students include such names as Chubby Checker, Frankie Avalon, Al Martino, and Bobby Rydel. Artie co-wrote and produced two massive hit records “At the Hop” and “Rock ‘n Roll is Here to Stay,” both recorded by Danny and the Juniors. Artie was personal friends with Dick Clark and would bring him acts for his show.

While going to a Community College in Philadelphia the music teacher there took notice of me, pulled me aside, and told me about a great music school I should attend. He then sent away for the application and helped me fill it out. The next thing I knew I was in Boston attending Berklee School of Music! I graduated Magna Cum Laude with a degree in Jazz and Rock Composition, Arranging, and Guitar.

I had originally gone to Berklee intending to major in voice, however I had no luck with the vocal department there and ended up with nodules on my vocal cords. The damage was so significant that I had to stop singing during my four years at Berklee and turned to studying Guitar and Composition.

I tried every vocal teacher in town wanting more than anything to be a singer. What I found was no teacher could help me and it seemed obvious that even though they had the “big name” they didn't know what they wt. I was losing hope. The combination of this roadblock and my persistence led me to the greatest thing that ever happened in my life....... I met Dante Pavone!

I kept hearing about a singing teacher named Dante Pavone. Since I had already tried everyone else, I decided to give him a shot. On my first lesson with Dante I noticed a big difference. My throat didn't hurt at all and a real voice was coming out of me. I was cured!

Dante’s studies were extensive and he had doctorates in voice, music history, psychology and many other subjects. He was the most intelligent; insightful person I have ever met in my life and not only taught me about voice but taught me many things about life. He one time told me that he had a more profound knowledge of all the fine singing muscles than anyone else.

Dante was the first; a “pioneer” in popular singing, breaking from the traditional operatic style. He taught, or was contacted by, such singers as John Lennon and Paul McCartney (Beatles), Mick Jagger (Rolling Stones), Aretha Franklin, Grace Slick (Jefferson Airplane), Steve Tyler (Aerosmith), Peter Wolf (JGiles Band), James and Livingston Taylor, Faye Dunaway, Tom Jones, Donna Summers, Jonathan Richman, Julianna Hatfield, Andy Pratt, at their prime and the list goes on and on. Once John Lennon and Paul McCartney showed up unannounced at his door handing him a blank check! Singers from New York City Opera Company used to sneak away from their teachers and come to Boston to study with Dante who would cure their wrecked voices from their famous opera teachers they had in NY. Best Singing Teacher in the World!

I studied with Dante every day for the first couple of years and then two or three times a week after that for fifteen years until his demise in 1998. I never missed a lesson! He gave me over a four-octave range where I started with only a five-note one. Not only did he improve my pitch and tone, but I can now sing and scream all night, if I want to, and never have a single vocal problem. In fact the more I sing the better my voice feels!

One day at my lesson Dante asked if he could pass his method down to me. This has been a great honor to me and although many teachers try to emulate his method I am the only one with a certificate as seen above. Not only was Dante my mentor, but still to this day he is the most important person I ever encountered in my life and was my best friend. We were very close and he would spend hours talking to me at lessons not only about music but about many fascinating subjects and opened my eyes to many incredible things.

Thirteen of my songs were chosen to be in one movie called Getting Personal and other songs in the movies Fillbilly and Dykeotomies. My band has won world contests.

I have also studied piano, guitar, and drums extensively and teach all instruments. I studied for years with late great world renowned Charlie Banacos and John Horrigan. Besides teaching I am a songwriter, dancer, actress, film maker, audio engineer and producer as well. I can help you record your songs!

Since 1982 I have written hundreds of songs and have been performing and recording my own music in major New England and New York venues. I've also won awards for my band "Girl on Top."

BreathingIf a teacher tells you breathing is not important you should be concerned. Let me help you to develop solid breathing and correct singing posture. An instrument only sounds as good as it's built. As we build your instrument your range, strength, resonance and stamina all improve. There is no end to how good you can get.

All StylesThe greatest thing about this method is it does not give you a style. You develop your own style! The student brings in songs they want to work on. Pop, rock, hip-hop, alternative, country, progressive, blues, jazz, swing, broadway, folk, rap, r+b, gospel, hardcore, screaming at the top of your lungs (if you want to).

All LevelsI teach all ages and presently have students from three years old to students in their seventies. Beginners to advanced, adults to elderly, children, kids, and pre-school. Dante taught me that I can improve a person’s life by teaching them music. He’s certainly improved mine. I hope you will let me help to improve yours.

Vocal TherapistMy method is guaranteed to cure any and all vocal problems or damage you may have from singing or talking: nodules, pitch, range, tone, endurance, etc.

Sing with no breakHave a smooth, multi-octave range. Sing any note the way you like: high or low, hard or soft.

No end to how you can improveAs long as you practice using this method, there is no limit as to how you can improve your range, tone, strength, flexibility, vibrato, phrasing, etc. Let me help you transcend fear, anxiety, and stage fright and replace it with technical ability and self-confidence.

Coaching and Stage PresenceWe work on songs that the student brings with them to lessons. Using acting techniques, I help them understand the true meaning of the song and how to convey it to an audience.

Guitar LessonLearn easily the basics of rhythm, notes and chords. Start with the basics and move into learning to play songs that you love. Incorporate learning to sing and play guitar on your favorite tunes. As the student becomes more confident the lessons move into learning advanced voicing, improvisational techniques and chord solos. All styles, all levels, all ages.

Piano LessonsWhether you are a beginner or an advanced professional, any age is welcomed. Learning to play the piano can be lots of fun and very rewarding with practice, persistence and the proper instruction. Learn easily the basics of rhythm, notes and chords. In the first lesson you will be able to play with both hands. As you continue lessons it will be fun and exciting to learn to play popular piano pieces. The more advanced student will have fun learning to improvise and play chord solos.

Drum LessonsLearning to play the drums is really easy and fun with my method! Start by learning how to hold the sticks and position yourself at a full drum set. At the end of the first lesson you will be able to play beats. With each lesson new beats, styles and exercises will be added. As you get more advanced the student can bring in songs they want to learn. This method is perfect and easy for any beginner or more advanced student.

Bass Lessons The bass is what holds the rhythm of the band together and provides the foundation and bottom for the chord structure. The student is taken in a step by step method that is easy to understand starting with learning basic notes, rhythms and finger exercises. As the student becomes more advanced they can bring in songs that they would like to learn. All styles, ages and levels.

Ear TrainingDeveloping your ear is essential for any serious musician. We start by learning to sing simple melodies and rhythms and as the student progresses move to more challenging ones. Also incorporated will be learning notation and chord and pitch recognition.Song WritingLearn to write songs like the pros. Karen D. has written over two hundred and fifty song. Let her expertise help you learn the secrets fast. We will work on song structure, theory and lyric writing.

Theory and ArrangingKaren D. is an honorary graduate of Berklee School of Music in Boston. There she acquired a degree in Jazz Composition and Arranging. She will teach you about notes, intervals, scales, chord structures and how chords work together. Also, you will learn how to arrange a song by adding drums, bass, guitar, horns, strings and whatever your heart desires.

Karen made the lesson fun and highly personalized. Karen wanted to know about my current skills and what I wanted to achieve. She then based our lesson play on this information. Excellent!

I don't know how much you remember of me, but you were my favorite voice teacher! I adore/d you and hope all the best for you! I used to walk across Copley Square to your studio for my classes. I remember vividly and I also remember my homework. I will always recommend you highly. Next to my band director you were always my best teacher. Know what? Love you Karen! You are the best! I wish every great thing for you.

Karen is an amazing teacher. She's patient, hard-working and dedicated. She has a lot of musical background experience and knowledge. She's also a cool person!

In American Idol, Haley did great on her solo, clearly the best. I was really impressed I hope you are doing well…we will see you at the next lesson.

Karen is a great teacher. She is extremely patient and encouraging. She also has a great method in building up strong muscles for singing. When I first met her, I could barely match the notes. She encourages me all the time and guides me through the tough period. Now I can match up to High C. She is also very great at Guitar, and has a very good way teaching. I really love her.

Thank you so much for the encouragement. I didn't get much of it when I was growing up that's probably why I never put any effort in pursuing my dream of becoming a musician. I am going to use your time for deeper understanding. I wasted a lot of time in the past I could of been much more educated by now if only i would of had focused and pushed myself. Our time together made me realize many things about myself what i should have done in the past and that I'm very impatient that's probably the main cause of why i never bothered learning anything worth learning... I admire people like yourself who encourage artists to do what they love. Thanks again.

Karen is an awesome teacher with patience and excellent methods to help people sing. She taught me the singing techniques and mostly importantly gave me confidence to face my weakness and sing once more. Patient, nice, and remarkable capability.

Thank you for being such a great teacher and friend!

Thanks for all your help. It has been a revelation.

I finally took your advice and have been doing my practicing every day. As a result, my choir director, Wendy, came up to me after the service and said, "you might become the lead soprano singer if you keep working with that singing teacher of yours, Karen.

Back from a week in New England...great trip...both reunion shows went very well...the audiences loved them. Thanks for your help in getting my voice ready. We had five hour rehearsals last Monday and Tuesday, and then shows on Wednesday and Thursday. My voice was stronger Thursday night than any of the three previous nights. That's a tribute to you and Dante, and I am grateful. Take care, and let's stay in touch...

Thank you for all you’ve taught me. I know your way is the real way. I hope to have the opportunity to learn more from you in the future. You’re the best!

Hey Karen! How are you? I'm over that horrible sickness. I went to rehearsal tonight and what's coming out of me keeps getting better. Just the look on everyone's face was awesome. More importantly I can finally express everything inside me. Thank you so much! The only problem I have is when my back get's tired. After an hour it get's tough. There's so much I want to go over with you. I'm your biggest fan! Thanks is not enough.

I know with the voice and lessons it can be like anything else one needs to improve, two steps forward one step back. However, I have to tell you, I have really made a breakthrough in the last week, starting last Thursday. For some reason "all of a sudden" my voice is stronger, clearer, I don't get hoarse as quickly, I can sing longer and "harder"/higher, my voice isn't so raspy the next morning, on and on. Yeah -- the lessons are really working, as I believed they would. Bless you and the spirit of Dante.

I threw Dante's name into the search engine and found you. My sister, Tina Sanderson, quit high school in 1967 and moved from long island to Boston and found Dante. I was at Berklee at the time for flute. I was amazed what he did to her already fabulous voice! When Grace Slick (Jefferson Airplane/Starship) went to prison, they asked Tina to fill in, but decided not to do anything until Grace was out. Unfortunately, two days before recording for Irwin Levine (tie a yellow ribbon....) she died in a car accident. Anyway, I am very happy to see that Dante's message is not lost with the Master. i will keep you in mind for anyone wanting the best techniques.

Hello Karen, I found your site through a google search of Dante. I was thinking about him and thought I’d see what I could find. Yours was the first site that turned up and I was very happy to have found it. Even back in 1981 and 1982, when I was with him, Dante was looking for a successor. I’m very glad to have found you. I am also a bit envious that you were wise enough to stay with him until the end. It was my every intention to do that, however, as a teen at the time on my own living in Boston, I let certain emotional issues cloud my judgment and left Dante in 1982 and came back to New Jersey. I must say that I was filled with sadness to find that Dante passed in 1997 and that I made no effort to contact him or study further before that time. What an opportunity it was ever to have met the man! I was with him for a year and applied his method for many years after. I’ve recently gotten back more into singing, I am a guitarist as well, and probably would want to start lessons with you. I was a voice major at Rowan University for a year and half, but actually would rather study by Dante method. Dante was very dear to me. I loved him very much. The year with him was one of the best times of my life with some of the fondest memories.

Hi Karen glad you had a great gig. Nothing was touching the pain, but when I sing it is so intense it doesn't matter. I didn't sleep at all last night, and I felt like crying! I went to my second project today and I think there is an ungodly potential there. I did a little recording last night (just me) so you could hear what you never hear in lessons. I am the singer I always wanted to be thanks to you and I know it's only going to get better! Oh well for now it's ice hot bath and rest.

Karen, even though it was sort lived, coming to you for lessons was one of the best things I've done. It's really gotten me back on track. Dante's scales are so balanced. I was getting into really bad habits especially with the e vowel. With those exercises I'm now placing the e vowel where it should be. I can sing all night again and feel nothing in my throat. When I went to university, the vocal scales weren't balanced. Dante's balances the e's with the ah's and when you got that, you've got it all. This is how I remember it as it used to be. As I said before, I'll be back.

Thank you so much for your wonderful lesson with great encouragement. You are the best music teacher I could ever imagine. How I wish I had met you earlier.

Karen is a wonderful, sensitive, teacher, who will work with you no matter what style of singing you prefer. For over 6 years I have taken voice from her and my range and confidence increased by leaps and bounds!

Karen is a committed, dedicated and extremely talented teacher. The unique techniques I learned in studying with her have greatly improved my singing, the quality of my voice, and my range is far greater. I am able to sing notes I would not have thought possible. Karen loves what she does and every lesson has been an extremely enjoyable learning experience.

Dear Karen, I wanted to thank you for teaching me. I'm very happy that I decided to take lessons with you and I was able to achieve my goal. Before I came to you I was not happy with my singing when I hit Bb above middle C and up, but I feel more comfortable with those notes after the lessons with you, and of course, doing the exercises and scales does wonders. You even got me to vocalize an octave above that Bb and beyond in less than six weeks. What I learned was so precious because it's not something you can learn by reading, but it's something I could only learn by actually having someone coach me in physical coordination. It was a very interesting experience and a hard work. I sing almost everyday, so I do notice the difference in my voice from day to day. Thank you so much.

Karen has been an amazing teacher. I have taken piano, guitar and voice lessons from her for over the past year. I had no prior musical knowledge (or native ability) but yet within 4 months she coached me through preparation for a show singing and accompanying on guitar. While I have much to learn I feel that Karen, with her dedication to her students and wonderful teaching ability, has truly helped me to succeed beyond my wildest expectations.

Dear Karen, So happy to see you're still doing great..I could never in words express my gratitude towards you for teaching me about music, life, and piano..(as well as the wonderful course for drums and everything else) Thank you.

HI Karen, Thank you so much for being such a great mentor and friend of mine:) Thanks for inspiring and encouraging me all the time. Love you.

Thank you so much for your wonderful lessons with great encouragement. You are the best music teacher I could ever imagine. How I wish I had met you earlier.

Hey, "Coach" -- hope this finds you well. We played two shows in Vermont two weekends ago, and my voice was excellent. I've been diligently doing my scales, my stretching exercises, and singing rock songs about 45 minutes a day since the book launch party last August, and it really paid off. I sang lead on two songs I couldn't even reach last summer. And I sang our "signature" song, "All Along The Watchtower" probably better than I ever sang it back in the 60s and 70s. My voice held up through two rehearsals, two sound checks, and two shows, and was stronger at the end than at the start. In fact, we had a jam session after the second gig and I sang "Superstition" by Stevie Wonder and I have never been able to do that one. So, thanks to you and our dear, departed Dante.

Just wanted you to know that I have continued to work on what you taught me with excellent results. This past August, at the book launch party, I sang lead on a song which I could not do in 2010 (and I could hardly have done any of my leads in 2010 without your help). In the six months since the book launch party I have done all my breathing exercises every day, except one single day, without fail. The result has been that as I sing along with records (which I do about 4-5 days a week) I can now do about a dozen leads on songs I sing with regularly, which I couldn't do six months ago in August. All this stuff re the voice is only to say a HUGE THANK YOU for your help and your teaching. Clearly, the Dante method works for geezers, also. I am amazed at what I can sing that I couldn't get to a year ago, or even 6 months ago. Plus, a couple of weeks ago I sang 11 days in a row (45 to 60 minutes each day) with no problems at all. It's so much fun to be able to really sing again...:-)

I'm not sure if you remember me but I took web lessons with you about a year an half ago. Life, however got in the way, and I had to stop. My schedule is now much freer, and I happen to once again be on the same time zone that you are on. I was hoping to begin taking vocal lessons with you again. You are by far the best vocal teacher I have ever had, and my voice really misses your training.

i am happy to tell you about my experience and opinion of Karen. i have been taking voice with her since 1996. I starting to sing in a choir as a soprano at my old church. i struggled to hit the notes and in doing so was straining my vocal chords. i went online to read about strained vocal chords and got scared when i read that they sometimes get nodules a need surgery. i decided i wanted to learn proper technique and searched for a vocal teacher. i read Karen’s bio and discovered that she too had suffered strained vocal chords and got relief through Dante Pavone’s method of teaching, and now she is certified to teach the same method. Since i started with her i have no problem in my throat and i sing way better. Even my body looks better because the exercises that the student does strengthen the lower back so that it can support the ribs properly and has given me a better figure. i still sing in a choir at my new church and i have gotten many compliments on my voice from many people. At this point i will tell you that i do not practice all of the breathing and scales as often as i am supposed to due to my being a wife and mother of two teenagers, which keeps me very busy and running. That said, i still have made great progress with Karen.Another more personal note is that a person would be hard-pressed to find another human being as loving as Karen. She’s very caring beyond just voice lessons. My husband has been taking drum lessons from her for three years now and he feels the same way about her, and he doesn’t usually trust people easily. Karen is very well educated and very intelligent. She is a tough but kind teacher. She watches her student like a hawk and doesn’t miss a trick. She corrects gently and never makes you feel badly about yourself. She’s very encouraging. i try never to miss a lesson, because i always leave there in a better mood than when i arrive.i hope this helps you to decide. You may think...whats with all of this breathing and posture? Trust the technique. it really works without pain or strain of the vocal chords, which means you can sing for the rest of her life and not just a couple years and have to quit due to nodules.

Forty years ago I was a lead singer in a New England rock band and I was tearing my throat up. I was hoarse after every gig and regularly lost my voice entirely after two or three nights. Then I became a pupil of Dante Pavone in Boston and a remarkable transformation occurred. Dante’s method was hard work, and it depended on following his advice precisely. But working with Dante I was able to correct my bad habits, improve the clarity, quality and range of my voice. I could go seven nights in a row and not lose my voice. Forty years later my band is getting back together for several reunion shows, but I have not sung professionally since 1971. Fortunately, I found Karen, a protégé of Dante’s, and took webcam internet lessons (she is in Boston, I in Virginia). All the benefits of the Pavone method re-appeared. I gained back three octaves on my range and my clarity, strength and pitch all greatly improved. The Dante Pavone method is still as great as ever and Karen is the ideal voice coach to teach it – a perfect blend of encouragement and pushing.

Saturday, for the first time after studying with you for over three years and not practicing, i forced myself to do what you have been telling me all along: to practice. The next day my husband came to the early church service with me and told me that when the choir sang the "anthem", which is our main piece in the service, that he could really hear me and that i sounded really good. Then i had another small rehearsal afterwards with the choir for a new piece for future. After that i was walking down the hall to leave and my choir director caught up to me and said, "You are sounding really good!" i said, “Really?” She affirmed, so i told her it was because my singing teacher is telling me i had better start doing my breathing exercise so i finally listened. She said it was paying off. Today i plan to do all 30 of each again. As much as i don’t understand why it makes so much of a difference, i now know it works and i know also that you are a very smart and driven person and that you would never steer me wrong. so thanks.

I called my brother (he used to back up Taj Mahal) to ask about when Grace Slick studied with Dante. When my sister was studying his method I met Dante once or twice. At the time I was making costumes for the New York City Opera Company and was one of Beverly Sill's dressers. Dante kept saying that Beverly was going to blow out her voice. I remember that several opera singers used to sneak away from their appointed vocal coaches in NYC to catch some time with Dante. Dante would have to cure all the vocal problems that their so called “famous” NY coaches were giving them.

I was thinking about Dante recently. I just got a gig in Switzerland coming up in April and even though I'm a sax player (Berklee alumnus) I will be singing a concert there. I pulled out all of my old hand written Dante notes and oddly I realized the system and its ease after twenty years. What I'm saying is "voila" now it all came back to me and I’m singing with a fair amount of ease up into my head, stretching my range and feeling really great. Anyway, I googled his name and your name came up associated with Dante's, and rightfully so. I was always amazed by him, but now I'm amazed at what he was always trying to tell me even though he saw me as a great student. I know that one website that came up under someone's name (associated with him) mentioned that he had passed away. I think he was 76 when he taught me. I remember he mentioned your name to me many times in the 80's. I moved to LA after Berklee and I talked about him with the highest respect and felt very lucky to have studied for a long time with a genius and true master of the human anatomy. Keep up the good work! I just wanted to say hello and let you know that I'm glad you're carrying on his legend.

Thanks for your help in getting my voice ready. We had five hour rehearsals last Monday and Tuesday, and then shows on Wednesday and Thursday. My voice was stronger Thursday night than any of the three previous nights. That's a tribute to you and Dante. I am grateful.

Karen I have to tell you I have really made a breakthrough since I started studying with you. My voice is stronger, clearer, I don't get hoarse as quickly, I can sing longer and "harder"/higher, my voice isn't so raspy the next morning, on and on. Yeah -- the lessons are really working, as I believed they would. Bless you and the spirit of Dante.

Every day, since studying with you, after I sing my voice is clearer and stronger when I am finished. You’re a great teacher!

Thank you for all you’ve taught me. I know your way is the real way. I hope to have the opportunity to learn more from you in the future. You’re the best!

I studied with one of the supposed most famous vocal teachers in America. After a year of studying this particular method I couldn’t even get through one rehearsal or four songs at a gig with out vocal blow out. When I came to Karen I had severe vocal damage from studying with this supposed other “famous” teacher”. On the first lesson with Karen my voice was cured and after four lessons I played a gig and my voice felt better than before I started singing and the next day I was not hoarse at all. This is the best vocal method I have ever studied in my life as I have studied with many other teachers before Karen that also damaged my voice. If it weren’t for Karen and the Dante Pavone method I surely would not ever be able to sing.

My daughter did great on her solo, clearly the best.! I was really impressed. I hope you are doing well…we will see you at the next lesson.

Had a great lesson with Karen today. I expected the usual tongue and lip rolls and of course the long lectures on what to avoid to keep a good voice, but i got something much better. :)

I went to rehearsal tonight and what's coming out of me keeps getting better and better. Just the look on everyone's face when I sang was awesome. More importantly I can finally express everything inside me. Thank you so much! I'm your biggest fan! Thanks is not enough.

I just wanted to let you know that my gig on Saturday went GREAT!!! My voice felt really good and I didn't feel strained at all. I'm so glad I took the breathing exercises that you showed very seriously. I don't know where I'd be without you.

Once again you have my deepest thanks for what you've opened to me vocally. I still can't believe it. Every time I open my mouth to sing I get better and better! Also, thank you very much for the great encouragement.

I just wanted to say again how happy I am that I met you. My progress is more than I dreamed of and I know I'm not all the way yet. I also have come to regard you as a friend. I truly wish you all the success you dream of.

Before studying with you I always felt like crying because I could never get my voice to work properly. You have showed me the potential there. I did a little recording last night so I could really hear the huge difference and in just a few lessons. I am becoming the singer I always wanted to be thanks to you. I know it's only going to get better!

My voice keeps getting better and better every day. I would say that you have 100% given me all the ability and more than I could have dreamed of. You definitely delivered the goods. I've grown from skeptic to true believer. The last two weeks, but especially the last couple of days, I have transformed into an altogether more dynamic singer with a pitch increase of at least an octave. Every note becoming as soft or as loud as I want it to without strain or effort! God bless you. I know that it's going to only get better from here! Did you ever see the matrix we're the guy says why oh why didn't I swallow the blue pill. That's how i feel about my choice some twenty years ago or more, when I saw your add. Also the changes in my physique are truly unbelievable too. Anyway thanks so much and I look forward to seeing you next week.

Hello Karen, Life is stranger than fiction!! I played an outdoor gig today! I sang for hours and had no problems. Afterward everybody was all over me. Makes all the sacrifice worth it. I learned a lot today. I sure hope it will continue. I live for this. Don't mean to sound like a broken record, but thanks so much for all you've given me the ability to do. I'm everything and more that I always wanted to be.

I so much value everything I've learned from you and I always looked forward to my lesson. You are a very gifted teacher and your technique has really made a difference in my voice. I never thought I could hit high C so effortlessly. Thank you, Karen.

It was great getting the first lesson from you. Saw how you rock from Dante's point of view.

Karen, You are wonderful. I love your personality and your lessons. I talked about you and your method to all my friends and co-workers and will always recommend you to anyone who’s interested in lessons.

Hi Karen, we're moving to New Hampshire tomorrow :-) We're going to miss you a lot! You have played a very positive role in Brendan's life and for that I will always be grateful. I wish you nothing but happiness. Warm Regards, Rob

You have been such a blessing. I believe people don't just come into your life by accident.

Karen, coming to you for lessons was one of the best things I've ever done. It's really gotten me back on track. Dante's scales are so balanced. I was getting into really bad habits. With those exercises I can sing all night again and feel nothing in my throat. When I went to university, the vocal scales weren't balanced and I had vocal issues. Dante's balances the e's with the ah's and when you got that, you've got it all. This is how I remember it as it used to be when I studied with Dante.

I enjoy the music instruction and guidance which shows progress in a short amount of time. I have explored rhythm, melody, and harmony with various instruments for resemblance. Her personal studio at home is great for this.

Awesome!

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Reviews

Jo B. December 1, 2017·Percussion·In home

Very patient with this beginner. Clear lesson plan.

Cameron B. October 26, 2017·Ukulele·In home

Karen is the best!

Carl W. July 18, 2017·Bagpipes·In home

Karen fixed my problem in five minutes after I had two years of getting no where. I play clarinet and was curling my fingers like on a clarinet. On a bagpipe, you must lay the fingers flat. Suddenly all the pressure problems with the reed went away.

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Karen D.

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Karen D.

Somerville, MA 02145

(18)

starting at

$40
/ 30-min

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About Gio A.

I have been playing drums and percussion for well over 10 years and have a great deal of experience teaching both. I'm happy to teach the complex rhythms of Latin-American and African-based music to novice students of any age or skill level.

About Gio

I studied music at UCF (Orlando), focusing on classical and jazz guitar, but I also have years of experience playing rock, blues, folk, hip-hop, and musical theater on both guitar and drums.

I have been teaching guitar, drums, and piano for about eight years to students of all ages. Music is what I'm passionate about and it's what I enjoy. I want to inspire that same passion into the hearts and minds of others.

*** Lesson Details ***I am a laid-back teacher, fun, and I focus on the needs, abilities, and ambitions of the student. In turn, students must realize that learning an instrument takes a lot of work and dedication. One can't expect to learn very much if s/he only practices or thinks about the instrument during the lesson. If the student is willing to put some time into practicing, then I will help them go far!

Gio A.

Gio A.

About Peter M.

Find the voice of the djembe without the pain! Learn to play your drum along with any kind of music! You will learn to speak the words which represent the tones of the drum, and quickly learn multiple parts of rhythms you'll remember forever! We can also explore the family of 3 Dunun (Bass Drums) and the other rhythmic instruments such as shakers and bells. Easily understand the "clave" patterns and rhythmic structures of African drumming, with a look to their roots in countries such as Guinea and Senegal, as well as how they have evolved into popular American culture.

About Peter

I am a student of various great drum teachers from many backgrounds. Experienced players enjoy jamming with me, but I have been told that I am especially gifted at helping beginners feel comfortable finding rhythms and sounds out of any instrument, including the human body. Rhythmic breathing is made simple and encouraged from the start. Tones and drum patterns can be explained verbally or written mathematically. Students remember the patterns forever, as well as gaining comfort in playing with other drummers or instruments. Odd time signatures or complicated songs can be tackled and easily learned. Use any drum or percussion instrument you have! Recordings are encouraged if you like!

Peter grew up in Chicago, raised to love soulful music. A graduate of Northwestern University's Performance Studies program with a focus on Theatre and

Media Arts, Public Speaking, and Ethnology. Designing percussion for stage and dance lead to studies and teaching of North and West African, Middle Eastern drum, Caribbean/South American and Asian drum and percussion rhythms. First hand experience has been gained by living in Morocco and South Korea for nearly a year each, studying and documenting folk music.

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Reviews

Wael April 20, 2016·Hand Drums·Online

Great teacher, great class

Eli I. September 14, 2015·Hand Drums·In home

Great lesson!

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Peter M.

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Peter M.

Medford, MA 02155

(2)

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

About Kerry K.

Originally from W. Africa, the Djembe is a drum for solo and ensembles. Wikipedia says it can be a Solo drum, due to its volume. My experience is usually with groups, i.e. at Sinclair College's choirs, adding interesting patterns and sounds. My approach is similar to Conga, although private lessons will include other interesting aspects of rudiments and ... if enough people, the possibility for a percussion ensemble.

About Kerry

I attended Wright State University for two (2) years studying Music , and then transferred to Belmont University to receive a Bachelors of Music in Percussion Performance. A Masters of Music from Eastern Kentucky University will help overall General music and creative studies.

I also studied at the Eastman School of Music, learning Creative Music Making and African drum studies.

Lastly, I attended University of Dayton for Percussion, Music Technology, & World music, and different Samba schools in Salvador/Rio, Brazil for Samba studies.

I have been performing since 1984 for theatre shows, Pop/Rock, jazz, R & B, Circus’ (Great Wallendas), swing bands, American Entertainment Productions show band (One year), and performed with Holland America Cruise Line for three (3) years. Recently, I've been performing Musicals at Sinclair C

ollege and Dare2Defy Productions, different jazz bands, as well as Church music in the area.

I have been teaching since 2004, both privately and for local studios, offering all styles.

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Reviews

Theresa Lauterbach October 29, 2016·Drum·In home

I saw improvement each week from my lessons with Kerry. He offered great resources and gave me advise for purchasing my drums. After just 5 months, I could read and play music on my own!

King Koeller December 1, 2015··

Fantastic jazz drummer!
Professional and knowledgeable about many diverse drumming styles.
Super swingin'!

James M. May 26, 2015·Drum·In studio

Kerry introduced the basics to my daughter. I could see improvement every
week. She loved going to lessons with Kerry.

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Kerry K.

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Kerry K.

Online

(6)

starting at

$27
/ 30-min

About Joseph C.

I have played percussion and djembe for 18 years. I went to Ghana and studied African drumming and dancing with Joe Galeota from Berklee College of Music. If your goal is to be able to play djembe in a drum circle, I can show you what you need to know and get you up to speed quickly.

About Joseph

Joey aka CelloJoe is an anomaly in the world of cellists.

By combining cello with beatboxing, he has created a unique genre: Classical Hip Hop.

CelloJoe records live on stage with a loop pedal and produces intricate tapestries of harmony, melody, and rhythm. His beatboxing (vocal percussion) and funky cello grooves form a rich soundscape for intelligent lyrics and his music spreads love, joy, laughter and conscious vibrations.

By beatboxing, throatsinging, singing, plucking and bowing the cello, CelloJoe can mimic many styles of music from dubstep to folk to rock to classical to hip hop.

CelloJoe is the world's first long distance musical bike touring cellist. He has ridden his bike over 10,000 miles in the US, Canada, Mexico, Europe and Australia.

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Reviews

bill January 17, 2016·Cello·In home

Joey has been a great cello teacher. I like the fact that his experience covers a broad range of music. When I want to make an arrangement of a heavy metal song, or I need to learn the nuance of baroque performance, he's there.
He's a working musician so his schedule is somewhat variable, but he is good about communicating and always comes when he says he will. He's personable and enthusiastic.

Linda January 4, 2016·Piano·In home

Joey is a creative and thoughtful teacher. He backs up interesting piano pieces with deep theory and classical training.

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Joseph C.

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Joseph C.

Online

(2)

starting at

$65
/ 30-min

About Michele R.

All my life, I've been a drummer. While I love playing a kit, the djembe is my favorite drum. It's portable, and as easy as popping it in the car to head out to a gig, a jam or a bon fire. They are inexpensive compared to a kit. Best of all, I can show you how to add brushes to your repertoire that will turn a djembe into a snare drum sound; making you a really versatile drummer.

About Michele

I have been teaching strings, piano, harp and drums since 1999. Many of my students have studied with me for years and developed a lifelong love of music. Some have gone on to be professionals.

I have been tutoring music therapy students as well as teaching music composition for seven years.

I strive to help students achieve their musical goals however I can, but I do not tolerate laziness or half-hearted attempts.

Music can be a tool and thus, summers are dedicated to fun, composition and learning to record.

...

Reviews

Austin February 12, 2018·Acoustic Guitar·In home

Michelle is a great teacher; but the having to give 24 hour notice or loose the lesson doesn't work for me.

Jan September 7, 2017·Acoustic Guitar·In home

So far Michele is a talented instructor. She is a down to earth person and knew my strengths and weakness right away. I am looking forward to my next class with her.